11.11.2024

Designed in Israel, Made by Earth, Deployed on Mars – by Frederic Eger – Israel’s involvement in Mars exploration and colonization is influenced by strategic alliances, technological capabilities, and ongoing involvement in space initiatives, particularly through NASA’s Artemis program. In January 2022, Israel joined the program to return humans to the Moon and establish a sustainable presence there. Israel’s aerospace industry, known for advanced satellite technology and unmanned aerial vehicles, can be leveraged in Mars exploration, particularly in developing autonomous systems and robotics. Israel’s future role in Mars colonization could involve contributing to scientific research and technology development, building partnerships with other nations, and aligning with larger blocs or coalitions.

Mars Colonization historical context & future timeline.
Mars colonization involves ambitious projects and evolving technologies to establish human presence on Mars, with key developments and projected milestones.

Historical Context.
1950s-1970s: The idea of colonizing Mars emerged in science fiction and early space exploration discussions. Notable figures such as Carl Sagan and Wernher von Braun proposed concepts for Mars missions, but practical efforts were limited to robotic exploration.
1990s: NASA’s Mars missions, including the Pathfinder and the Mars Global Surveyor, laid the groundwork for understanding the planet’s environment and resources.
21st Century Initiatives
2000s: NASA’s Mars Exploration Program expanded with rovers like Spirit and Opportunity, which provided extensive data about Martian geology and conditions.
2012: The Mars One project was announced, aiming to establish a permanent human settlement by 2023. Although it generated significant interest, it faced financial and logistical challenges.
2018: SpaceX successfully launched its Falcon Heavy rocket, demonstrating the capability to deliver payloads to Mars, which is crucial for future colonization efforts.
Future Timeline.
2020s
2021: China successfully landed its Tianwen-1 rover on Mars, marking a significant achievement in global space exploration efforts.
2023: Anticipated advancements in autonomous mining technologies are expected to facilitate resource extraction on Mars, crucial for sustaining human life.
2025: SpaceX aims to conduct successful demonstrations of fuel transfer between Starship prototypes in orbit, essential for future missions.
2030s
2030: Initial human missions are projected to occur around this time. NASA plans to send astronauts to Mars as part of its broader exploration strategy.
2031: SpaceX is expected to land its first crewed missions on Mars, establishing a temporary base known as Mars Base Alpha. This mission will focus on In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU), particularly water extraction.
2040s
2046: The establishment of an international free spaceport on Phobos is anticipated, supporting logistics for Martian operations.
2047: Infrastructure development will include public transport routes between Martian bases, enhancing connectivity for colonists.
2050s and Beyond
2050: Experts predict that a significant human settlement could be established by this year, although estimates vary widely regarding population size and infrastructure readiness.
2054: Facilities for nuclear fusion power and other advanced technologies are expected to become operational, supporting larger populations on Mars
2059: Continued expansion of Martian settlements is projected, with various nations establishing their own bases on the planet.

Legal Frameworks Governing Mars Colonization.
The legal framework for Mars colonization is based on international treaties, particularly the Outer Space Treaty (OST) of 1967. The treaty outlines principles such as non-appropriation, jurisdiction and control, and international cooperation. Article II of the OST prohibits nations from claiming sovereignty over celestial bodies, including Mars, and states retain jurisdiction over their registered space objects and personnel. The OST encourages international cooperation in outer space exploration, requiring collaboration among multiple nations for colonization efforts. Private corporations attempting to establish colonies on Mars face challenges such as legal status and the need for a robust legal structure. As technological advancements bring humanity closer to establishing a presence on Mars, these legal challenges will need to be addressed through international dialogue and cooperation.

Breaking down the Financial Needs for a Mars Human first settlement.
The cost of building a Mars colony for 100 humans is estimated to be around $3 billion to $5 billion. The cost of sending a person to Mars could be around $200,000 per ticket, resulting in $20 million for transportation alone. Initial infrastructure development for a self-sustaining city on Mars could range from $100 billion to $10 trillion, depending on technological advancements and resource availability. For a smaller colony of 100 people, initial infrastructure costs could be $500 million to $1 billion for basic facilities and life support systems. Developing reliable life support systems could cost around $2 billion or more, considering recycling air and water, food production, and waste management. Habitat construction costs could range from $500 million to $2 billion, depending on chosen methods and technologies. Ongoing operational costs for maintaining a colony include supplies, repairs, and expansion efforts, which could reach $10 million per year for a small colony.

Israel Road to Mars: Financial, Technological and Political Challenges.
Israel’s Mars exploration project faces numerous financial, technological, and political challenges. The limited budget for space initiatives is insufficient for large-scale projects, requiring substantial investment for research, technology development, and mission execution. Geopolitical tensions and economic fluctuations have created a challenging financial environment, impacting international trade and funding availability. Israel must attract private sector investment to achieve ambitious goals, but the current economic climate may deter investors. Advanced technologies, such as life support systems and robotics, are critical for Mars life support. Israeli startups compete to join NASA’s Artemis program for lunar and Martian exploration, presenting opportunities for collaboration but also requiring Israeli companies to demonstrate their technologies’ relevance internationally. Infrastructure development is essential for space missions, and initiatives like the Mitzpe Ramon Hub require ongoing support and resources.

The Strategic Need for Israel to Increase its yearly budget to 1 Billion USD.
Eight government space agencies are leading humanity’s space endeavors, with NASA investing $23.5 billion (2022), China’s National Space Administration (CNSA) reaching $12 billion (2021), and the European Space Agencyy (ESA) increasing its budget to $7.8 billion (2024). France’s CNES invested $3.5 billion (2022), Russia’s $2 billion, India’s ISRO reached $1,831 billion, Italy’s ASI $1,685 billion (2024), and Germany’s DLR $1.424 in 2021. Israel ranks 32nd with a marginal $17 million yearly budget, compared to South Korea ($701 Million, ranking 10th), Spain ($739 Million, ranking 9th), Italy, Greece ($46 Million in 2024), Portugal ($28.4 Million), or the Czech Republic ($58 million in 2024); countries considered to share that the same GDP per capita as Israel. To join the ranks of eight government space agencies that invest one billion USD yearly, Israel needs to develop multi-sectorial strategies with holistic approach and global vision. Israel’s presence in the global space sector requires a significant increase in its space budget, enhanced international partnerships, and a larger pool of skilled engineers. Advanced technologies, such as spacecraft for long-duration missions and life support systems for human habitation, are key for exploring independently the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Investments in infrastructure and R&D will enable Israel to build the required infrastructure for space missions and invest in research and development. Building strategic alliances with other nations involved in Mars exploration can provide critical support for joint ventures in research, technology development, and mission planning.

The Importance of Engineering Workforce Growth in Israel’s Space Sector.
Israel has the potential to boost its space industry by reallocating and increasing its engineering workforce. The current workforce is around 2,500, but the government plans to quadruple it to 10,000 in the coming years. This strategic move aims to capture at least 1% of the global market share, potentially yielding significant profits for Israeli companies. The space industry can contribute significantly to Israel’s GDP growth and leverage its strengths in technology and innovation. Expanding the workforce will create thousands of new jobs, address unemployment, and stimulate economic activity across related industries. A larger engineering workforce can foster innovation in satellite technology, remote sensing, and communication systems, aligning with Israel’s reputation as a startup nation. Implementation strategies for reallocating and increasing Israel’s engineering workforce include targeted training programs, incentives for private sector engagement, increased government funding for space initiatives, and public awareness campaigns.

A unique contributions to Mars colonization: Israel’s Startup Ecosystem.
Israel’s startup ecosystem, government support, satellite technology expertise, interdisciplinary approaches, and a resilient culture of innovation contribute to its unique contributions to Mars colonization. The Israel Space Agency and SpaceIL are actively involved in Mars exploration and colonization projects, with Israeli startups participating in NASA’s Artemis program and collaborating with international partners. The Jewish National Fund-USA’s philanthropic investments in southern Israel have attracted local talent to join NASA’s Artemis program for Moon and Mars exploration and settlement. The EXPAND space accelerator aims to integrate blue and white technologies into NASA’s Artemis program for Moon and Mars exploration and settlement. Out of over 50 Israeli startups, only five companies were selected to participate in humanity’s next giant leap. Tedence Space aims to make human life in space safer by developing an innovative medical platform using artificial intelligence. Omnidrilldevelops underground robotic technologies for Earth and future off-world colonies. Inhayle develops hydroxyl-based surface disinfection technology to reduce hospital-acquired infections on Earth.

Launching Israel’s Human Spaceflight program.
Israel lacks an independent human spaceflight program for missions to the Moon and Mars due to historical events, strategic priorities, financial constraints, and a focus on collaboration with established space agencies. The country’s approach to human spaceflight has been influenced by the death of its first astronaut, Ilan Ramon, during the Columbia shuttle disaster in 2003. Israel’s space program primarily focuses on satellite technology, particularly small satellites for Earth observation and communications. The Israeli government has historically allocated limited funding for its space agency, the Israel Space Agency (ISA). Current plans propose a budget of $180 million over five years to enhance the civilian space industry, but this is still modest compared to the extensive funding required for a comprehensive human spaceflight program. Israel’s strategy does not include to invest heavily in human spaceflight infrastructure. As Israel continues to develop its space participation and strengthen its international partnerships, Israel must have its own independent astronaut program, and, pilots from the Israel Air Force (IAF) constitute the candidate’s natural breeding ground to select a man and a woman to carry the colors of Israel in space.

Shaping Mars Colonization by Unleashing Israel’s Ingenuity.
Israel’s space technology ecosystem, with over 105 startups and a $314 million funding, has the potential to significantly contribute to Mars colonization. The government supports the sector by investing in infrastructure and facilitating collaboration, with plans to allocate $180 million for private sector development. Israel’s leadership in satellite technology, including communication services and remote sensing capabilities, is crucial for developing the infrastructure needed for Mars colonization. To achieve independence in space, the government must increase funding, foster public-private partnerships, enhance international partnerships, and invest in education and workforce development. Israeli startups can scale technologies for Mars missions with agility and speed.

Quelle: The Times of Israel